Moroccan football fans erupted in celebration across Casablanca following their team's dramatic World Cup victory, while contrasting scenes unfolded in The Hague, where police clashed with supporters after the Netherlands were eliminated on penalties on Monday night.
The Dutch city saw sporadic unrest in areas with a significant Moroccan community. Police in The Hague reported that "heavy fireworks were set off" in the Schilderswijk district, with officers being targeted by fireworks and stones.
Riot squads were deployed, using a water cannon to disperse the crowds. Authorities confirmed that "a few individuals have been arrested for committing open violence."
In Morocco's largest city, Casablanca, a tense silence gripped a popular coffee shop as the penalty shootout reached its climax. This quickly transformed into a deafening roar when Ismael Saibari converted the decisive spot kick, securing Morocco's place in the Round of 16.
The jubilation swiftly spilled onto the streets, with flares and fireworks illuminating the night sky. Car horns blared and engines revved as fans celebrated well into the early hours.
Despite the late kick-off and the impending workday, dozens of ecstatic supporters gathered on a main boulevard around 5 am local time, dancing, waving Moroccan flags, and chanting, "Canada, we’re coming for you."
The Netherlands had looked set to advance to the last-16 after Cody Gakpo gave them the lead in the 72nd minute. The Liverpool winger was overcome with emotion after his goal, following the news that his partner suffered a miscarriage last week.
Ronald Koeman’s side held the advantage heading into added time, but Morocco refused to give in and equalised through a powerful header from Issa Diop in the 91st minute.
There were no further goals in extra time, and it was Morocco who managed to keep their nerve to record a 3-2 penalty shootout win.
Morocco are now set to face co-host Canada in the next round on Saturday, a team they previously defeated 2-1 in the 2022 World Cup group stage.
Expectations are soaring as fans dream of emulating their historic run four years ago, when the nation became the first African team to reach the World Cup semi-finals.
